Over the next two weeks, the News will publish its annual review of the
years news in Yellow Springs. What stands out when reviewing a years
worth of newspapers is the richness and fullness of life here.

Some stories will naturally grab your attention, such as the destruction
of Glen Helens Red Barn; efforts to increase business growth in
town; the controversies surrounding WYSO, the local public radio station;
Tim Lopez, the Yellow Springs High School senior who disappeared last
January; the affordable housing controversy and the referendum on the
Glass Farm plan; Antiochs new president and chancellor; the environmental
investigations at Vernay Laboratoriess Dayton Street facility and
YSI Incorporateds Brannum Lane campus; Vernays decision to
close its local plants.

It is, however, the many simple or everyday-type of stories and events
that can really make an impact on a town, and a reader: the artists-in-residence
at Mills Lawn; the Lions Clubs annual 4th of July fireworks display;
parades; Halloween bonfires; the King Day walk; the new signs and maps
on the Antioch campus; AACWs Blues Fest; the distribution of flour
and sugar to local widows; Street Fair; the vast number of school activities
and the efforts of our young athletes; lasagna dinners; the Baptist Churchs
Calendar Tea; Gabby Day; a new flag pole at the Train Station.

Sifting through the years events gives you a sense of this place,
its people and our community. It is remarkable to consider the number
of individuals and groups that quietly help make a difference everyday
in Yellow Springs. Every month people organize art events and concerts,
community potlucks, lectures and presentations, and sporting events such
as the tee-ball program and youth soccer programs.

While attention-grabbing, tumultuous or controversial stories often garner
big headlines, it is these other stories that really show what kind of
town Yellow Springs is. Indeed, it is the people, more than anything else,
that make Yellow Springs a fascinating and caring community.

Robert
Mihalek

Note: This weeks editorial is adapted from one that was originally
published a year ago.